Steady Hands, Shifting Ground

This May, as we mark Mining Month in Canada, the industry finds itself in a familiar position—navigating uncertainty with focus and resolve. The headlines may be loud, but on the ground, the work continues with quiet determination.

Leaders across the sector acknowledged the turbulence: tariffs in flux, supply chains under pressure, and markets reacting in real time. But the response wasn’t reactionary. It was measured, strategic, and grounded in experience.

Here’s what’s real right now, and likely for the season ahead:

The fundamentals haven’t changed. Projects still start in the ground—with the prospector in the wilderness, the geologist mapping the drill program, and the elders sharing traditional knowledge. These are the constants, even as markets shift.
There’s a national awakening around metals and minerals. From coffee shops to hockey rinks, Canadians are talking about resources in a way we haven’t seen before. It’s not just industry insiders anymore—it’s everyone.
And the numbers back it up. Mining contributed $117 billion to Canada’s GDP in 2023 and supported 430,000 high-quality jobs. With average compensation of $137,000 per job, the sector is not only essential—it’s rewarding. Source: Mining Association of Canada Report.
Canada’s global position is strong. We’re the world’s top producer of potash and rank among the top five producers of 14 key minerals and metals—including nickel, cobalt, uranium, and aluminum. This isn’t just about domestic resilience—it’s about global relevance.

As we head into the exploration season, there’s a cautious optimism in the air. Commodity markets are sending mixed signals—some metals are riding out volatility, while others, like gold, are surging to record highs. This momentum is fueling renewed interest in precious metals exploration, especially in regions with untapped potential. Teams are mobilizing, drills are turning, and the focus is shifting from policy to progress. It’s a reminder that no matter the noise, the work continues—on the ground, in the field, and across the country.

The takeaway this month? We’re not just reacting to change—we’re building through it. The best projects take time, tenacity, and trust.

Happy Mining Month!

And as we mark Mining Month in Canada, it’s a good reminder to celebrate the people, projects, and partnerships that make this industry what it is – one we love. To companies across the country: this is your moment to share your stories, highlight your impact, and show Canadians why mining matters—now more than ever.

Photo – Anne, 2017 holding~600oz YUKON GOLD Bar which was ~$1Million CAD, with just a little security courtesy of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Today that same bar is over $1.6M CAD!

Anne Lewis

Mining Advisor

As Associate at PRA Communications, I bring over 15 years of experience in communications, public relations, and marketing, exclusively focused on amplifying the stories of the mining industry and its contributions to communities, economies, and the environment. I am passionate about fostering connections between mining companies, investors, governments, and communities to build resilient partnerships that strengthen the industry and contribute to sustainable growth.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most innovative leaders in mining, creating campaigns that drive investment, enhance reputations, and promote workforce diversity. In 2022, I was honored with the Women in Mining Canada Trailblazer Award, recognizing my commitment to advancing equity and inclusion in the industry, as the Founder and Past-President of Yukon Women in Mining. I’m a dedicated advocate for Canada’s North, proud to represent the voices and contributions of northern communities within the broader mining landscape. Whether leading strategic campaigns or supporting stakeholder engagement, I’m committed to helping our clients navigate the unique challenges and opportunities of the mining sector, from brand development and advocacy to community relations and training initiatives.

At PRA, I focus on building bridges between people, projects, and ideas, uniting diverse perspectives to create meaningful and impactful results. Our team of communication specialists works tirelessly to ensure that our clients’ achievements resonate with the audiences that matter most. We understand the complexities of today’s mining landscape, from regulatory requirements to the critical importance of building trust with local communities and government stakeholders.

I am also the owner of ‘plantastic’ small business – Decora, a Garden, Gathering, and Gift Centre in Whitehorse, Yukon, which has the largest collection of tropical plants north of 60, carefully curated products created by women, northerners and Canadians and a fun and energetic meeting and event space. As a born-and-raised Yukoner, I’m a proud ambassador for the North and a dedicated advocate for a modern, diverse, and responsible mining industry. Outside of work, I recently completed my first half-marathon, am an enthusiastic softball player during the Yukon summers and have a shadow known as Odin the red lab, who is the best sidekick in all my adventures.

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